I was recently asked what items I NEVER travel without. And it occurred to me that I should include an annual round-up of my travel essentials because the list changes often from year to year.
Let’s be honest what I needed to travel with 5 years ago or even a year ago is different than what I am traveling with now. Each year I try to become more and more efficient and effective in my packing to avoid checking a suitcase while being stylish and having the things I need to keep my trips enjoyable.
As a seasoned traveler and style enthusiast over 40, I know how important it is to be well-prepared, especially when traveling solo.
So here is my curated 2024 list of top 25 travel essentials that I believe every female traveler over 40 will find particularly helpful. These items are designed to enhance comfort, and style, ensuring you can enjoy your adventures with confidence and ease.
I will do a separate 2024 essential list for travel safety and security – it’s coming soon!
1. Rolling Backpack Suitcase
Combining the convenience of a backpack with the ease of a rolling suitcase, this versatile piece of luggage is perfect for solo travelers. It offers ample storage space, durable wheels, and comfortable straps, making it ideal for navigating various terrains. The dual functionality means you can switch between carrying and rolling as needed, providing maximum flexibility for different travel situations.
My favorite rolling backpack is the Hynes Eagle Rolling Backpack 42L Backpack with Wheels it is light enough to wear on the back when traversing rough terrain like cobblestone streets and it also rolls through airports and regular sidewalks nicely.
2. VPN (Virtual Private Network)
When traveling internationally, securing your internet connection is crucial to protect your personal information and ensure unrestricted access to the internet. I highly recommend using ExpressVPN. With a VPN, you can safely browse the web on public Wi-Fi and access your favorite websites and streaming services without geographical restrictions.
3. Apple AirTag and AirTag Holder
Losing your luggage or important items can be a nightmare, especially when traveling alone. Apple AirTags provide peace of mind by allowing you to track your belongings in real-time. Paired with a secure AirTag holder, these small devices can be attached to your suitcase, handbag, or even your keyring, ensuring you always know where your essentials are. I like the Belkin Airtag holder it helps me keep track of my air tags even when I am not using them.
4. Universal Travel Adapter and/or Converter Travel Adapter
A universal travel adapter is an essential item for any international traveler, ensuring you can charge all your devices no matter where you are in the world. This versatile adapter features multiple USB ports, allowing you to charge your phone, tablet, and other electronics simultaneously, keeping all your gadgets powered up and ready to go.
Additionally, if you’re traveling to a region with different voltage standards, the converter function is invaluable. It converts the voltage to the appropriate level for your devices, protecting them from potential damage caused by incompatible electrical systems. This dual functionality makes the universal travel adapter with a converter an indispensable tool for hassle-free and safe travel, ensuring you can stay connected and powered up wherever your journey takes you. For travel adapter/converter combo my converter of choice is by Apzek.
5. Noise Cancelling Headphones
Traveling can be noisy, whether you’re on a plane, train, or bus. Noise-canceling headphones are essential for creating a peaceful environment, allowing you to relax, sleep, or focus on your work. They are particularly useful for long-haul flights, helping to drown out engine noise and chatter from fellow passengers. My favorite is the Bose Quiet Comfort Noise Cancelling Headphones. I don’t leave home without them.
Packing Cubes
Keeping your suitcase organized can be a challenge, but packing cubes make it effortless. These handy organizers allow you to separate your clothes, shoes, and accessories, making it easy to find what you need without unpacking everything. They also help maximize space in your suitcase, ensuring you can pack more efficiently and keep your belongings neat and tidy. I am partial to the BAGAIL 4 Set/6 Set Compression Packing Cubes.
7. Portable Charger
In our digital age, staying connected is essential, especially when traveling solo. A high-capacity portable charger ensures your devices stay powered up on the go, so you’re never without your phone, tablet, or other electronics. Look for a charger with multiple ports and fast-charging capabilities for maximum convenience. I like the Anker Portable Charger, Power Bank because it slips right into a back pocket or cross body bag and it last for multiple hours after a single charge.
8. Travel Pillow
A good travel pillow is crucial for staying comfortable on long journeys. Ergonomic travel pillows provide excellent neck support, making it easier to sleep on planes, trains, or buses. Its compact design means it won’t take up too much space in your carry-on, and it can make a significant difference in how rested you feel upon arrival. I have two favorite travel pillows: The trtl Travel and Airplane Pillow is my all time favorite simply for comfort and ease to sleep, My other favorites are the Cosy collection travel pillow and the Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow. The Travelrest Travel Pillow is inflatable and takes very little space from a packing perspective.
I love the Cosy Collection pillow because I can store clothing in the inside of it. It is not the most comfortable for sleeping purposes for long haul flights but I always take it along as it allows me to bring more items along when need to . You can grab your very own Cosy Collection Nab Pillow with a sweet 10% discount using code “BaldGirlWillTravel.”
Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror
Maintaining your beauty routine on the go can be challenging, but a lighted travel makeup mirror makes it much easier. This compact mirror offers bright LED lights and magnification options, ensuring you can apply makeup or check your appearance with precision, no matter where you are. It’s a must-have for ensuring you look your best throughout your travels. I travel nowhere nowadays without my Fancii LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror. It has 1x/10x Magnification and a Large 5” Wide Illuminated Folding Mirror. It is easy to pack and a great item to have just about anywhere.
UV Protection Travel Umbrella
Weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always wise to pack a small, durable umbrella. This travel umbrella provides excellent UV protection, shielding you from both rain and harmful sun rays. Its lightweight design means it fits easily in your bag, making it a convenient addition to your travel gear. The Umenice UPF 50+ UV Protection Travel Umbrella literally saved my life in Egypt last October. It not only blocks the sun like a dream but it works as a regular umbrella as well.
11. Travel-Sized Toilet Seat Covers
Keeping your suitcase organized can be a challenge, but packing cubes make it effortless. These handy organizers allow you to separate your clothes, shoes, and accessories, making it easy to find what you need without unpacking everything. They also help maximize space in your suitcase, ensuring you can pack more efficiently and keep your belongings neat and tidy. I have found traveling with travel sized toilet seat covers to be a Godsend. Often on long haul flights and public bathrooms these sheets are not readily available. It is good to have your own. I prefer the Relyo Flushable Toilet Seat Covers. They come in multiples of 50 with 10 per pack. They are always in my personal item bag.
12. Laundry Detergent Washer Sheets
For longer trips, being able to wash your clothes is a game-changer. Laundry detergent washer sheets are compact, lightweight, and easy to use. Simply dissolve a sheet in water, and you can hand wash your clothes in your hotel sink. They are a mess-free, space-saving alternative to liquid detergent and perfect for keeping your wardrobe fresh. Because I pack light having detergent washer sheets have really been handy for me. I like to wash certain items while in transit whether in a hotel or vacation rental and having these Enyur Washer Sheets on hand allow me to do laundry on the go!
13. Portable Travel Soap Paper Sheets
These soap paper sheets are perfect for on-the-go hand washing. They are compact, easy to use, and a great alternative to liquid soap, making them a travel essential. Add water to a sheet, and you have instant soap for clean hands, making them ideal for travel hygiene. I have more than once ended up in public restrooms on tours and excursions and found no hand soap on hand, having a couple of these FOMIN – Antibacterial Paper Soap Sheets for Hand Washing solves this problem every time.
14. Compression Socks
Long flights and extended periods of sitting can lead to swollen and uncomfortable legs. Compression socks help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and provide support, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your journey. They are particularly beneficial for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during long-haul flights. Especially for those of us over 40 compression socks can be life savers. Especially if you will sit and stand for long periods on a plane train or even bus, having a pair or two along for the ride is a must. I like these Aolk Compression Socks and I highly recommend that every traveler own a pair or two.
15. Compact First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen anywhere, so it’s wise to be prepared with a compact first aid kit. This kit includes all the basics, from bandages to antiseptic wipes, ensuring you’re ready for minor emergencies. It’s a small but essential addition to your travel gear, providing peace of mind knowing you’re equipped to handle minor injuries. I never travel anywhere without a mini first aid kit. I stock mine with the items I need along with the basics. A great starter first aid kit for any traveler is the Thraid Mini First Aid Kit. It has 100 pieces more than enough for any traveler.
16. Handheld Mini Fan
Stay cool and comfortable with a portable handheld mini fan. This lightweight, rechargeable fan provides a refreshing breeze wherever you go, perfect for hot climates or stuffy environments. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your bag, ensuring you can stay cool and comfortable no matter where your travels take you. For us ladies going through our own personal summers a mini fan is one of the most important items in the travel arsenal. I go NOWHERE without my JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan, 3 IN 1 Hand Fan tucked in my personal item bag.
17. Professional Selfie Stick with Tripod and Bluetooth Remote
Especially for us solo traveling sisters taking self photos and videos can be most challenging. I am often asked how I take so many pictures and videos so expertly. My secret weapon is the Fugetek 51″ Professional Selfie Stick Tripod it allows me to take candid photos and videos as well as posed photos with just my iPhone 13 thanks to its Bluetooth technology and its 51″ tripod stand. It’s another must-have for me.
18. Cooling Sleep Eye Mask & Shade
This weighted eye mask provides cooling relief and blocks out light, making it easier to sleep on planes and in hotel rooms. Its soothing pressure helps you relax and get a good night’s sleep, ensuring you’re well-rested and ready for your adventures. I travel with my own eye mask to ensure sleep on long-haul flights. In my personal item bag is always this Brownmed – IMAK Eye Pillow – Cooling Sleep Eye Mask & Shade with ErgoBeads. I highly recommend it.
19. Collapsible Water Bottle
Stay hydrated with a collapsible water bottle that is lightweight and easy to pack. It’s perfect for travelers who want to save space in their bags. When empty, the bottle folds down to a compact size, and it can be expanded and filled whenever you need it. It’s an eco-friendly and convenient way to stay hydrated on the go. I recommend the Taketoday Collapsible Water Bottles 20oz, Leak Proof, BPA-Free, Foldable Silicone Travel Water Bottle with Straw. Easy to pack and easy to take along on tours and excursions. Fits easily in a corner of a carry-on bag.
20. Leakproof Travel Soap Container
Carry your bar soap without worrying about leaks with this travel soap container. It’s compact, durable, and keeps your soap clean and contained, preventing it from getting your other belongings wet. It’s a practical addition to your travel toiletries.
Also never forget that Bar soap is not treated as a liquid so you can take more than one if needed. I recommend the Aimaiaimai Travel Soap Container, Leakproof Soap Box for transporting my bar soap. It is especially useful after initial use because it keeps the soap from leaking onto other places in your carry-on bag.
I always take a bar of soap to cleanse my face when I travel. My favorite is CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar | Soap-Free Body and Facial Cleanser with 5% Cerave Moisturizing Cream | Fragrance-Free.
21. Flushable Cleansing Cloths
These flushable cleansing cloths are perfect for times when there is no toilet paper. They are gentle, effective, and easy to pack in your travel bag. These cloths provide a refreshing and hygienic clean, ensuring you feel fresh and comfortable throughout your travels. I recommend Cottonelle Fresh Care Flushable Cleansing Cloths. they are gentle on the tush and easy to pack.
22. Clear Shoe Bags for Travel
Keep your shoes from touching your clothes with these clear shoe bags. They are durable, easy to pack and help keep your suitcase organized and clean. These bags protect your clothes from dirt and odors, ensuring everything stays neat. I recommend the Coida Drawstring Travel Shoe Bags.
23. Mini Sewing Kit
This mini sewing kit is essential for quick clothing repairs on the go. It includes needles, threads, buttons, and other essentials, ensuring you can handle any minor wardrobe malfunction. It’s a small but vital tool for maintaining your wardrobe during your travels. I recommend the Embroidex Sewing Kit. It has allowed me to make quick wardrobe fixes on the go all over the world!
24. Portable Speaker with Bluetooth
Enjoy your favorite music or podcasts on the go with this portable Bluetooth speaker. It’s compact, lightweight, and delivers excellent sound quality, making it perfect for any travel setting. Whether you’re relaxing in your hotel room or having a picnic in the park, this speaker provides the perfect soundtrack to your adventures. I recommend the JBL Go 3: Portable Speaker with Bluetooth, Built-in Battery. It is one of my new favorite things. It’s small but powerful. I like to use it to listen to podcasts and music as I go to sleep a night in hotel rooms.
25. Portable Travel Iron
Keep your clothes wrinkle-free with this portable travel iron. It’s compact, easy to use, and ensures you always look your best, no matter where you are. Perfect for business trips or special occasions, this iron helps you maintain a polished appearance throughout your travels. I recommend the Newbealer Travel Iron with Dual Voltage. I LOVE this little travel iron. It works well and fits in small spaces. I do recommend using it with a Converter Adaptor. The great thing is that it has dual voltage and it is super light.
Other Packing Items to Never Forget:
ATM or credit card with no international fees
Hard copies of vital documents
Over-the-counter medications
Passport
Passport photos
Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort or style. With these essentials from my Amazon Storefront, you can enjoy your adventures confidently and stylishly. Happy travels!
Baldgirlwilltravel Travel Product Pick of the Month (August 2024)
Umenice UPF 50+ UV Protection Travel Umbrella Ultra Lightweight
Traveling in the summer often means dealing with intense sun, and having the right gear can make all the difference. The Umenice UPF 50+ UV Protection Travel Umbrella is an essential item for any traveler. It’s ultra-lightweight, making it easy to carry around, and provides excellent protection from harmful UV rays with its UPF 50+ rating. This umbrella is not only compact and portable but also durable, ensuring you stay cool and shaded during your adventures.
Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Istanbul, lounging on a sunny beach, or hiking through scenic trails, the Umenice umbrella is designed to offer maximum sun protection without adding extra weight to your travel bag. Its ergonomic handle and sturdy construction make it comfortable to use, even on windy days.
I highly recommend the Umenice UPF 50+ UV Protection Travel Umbrella for anyone looking to enjoy their summer travels without worrying about sunburn or overheating. Stay safe, stylish, and comfortable no matter where your adventures take you!
Download the Travel Safety and Security Guide for Solo Female Travelers
For more detailed information on how to stay safe while exploring the world solo, check out my guide Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers. This guide covers everything from cultural norms to situational awareness, empowering you to travel confidently.
This resource is packed with expert advice to empower solo female travelers with the knowledge to explore the world confidently and safely.

Thinking about travel but not ready to go completely alone?
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Visit my dedicated Meet Up Page to learn about my upcoming girls' trip for Fly 40+ women!
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